Grow your business, move closer to customers or add flexibility for surges in demand

Companies looking to expand their footprint and move inventory closer to end consumers are choosing multi-client warehouses, enabling them to take advantage of a smaller space within a facility.

Multi-client warehouses work for companies of all sizes. Small businesses use them to reach new markets affordably, while larger companies use them to get products closer to customers.

Multi-client solutions make the most sense for customers needing 75,000 square feet of space or less. Even companies requiring 75,000 - 80,000 square feet typically prefer multi-client arrangements, if possible, though dedicated facilities become an option at that size.

There's also another option. Penske can lease a warehouse to one client, them fill the remaining space with other businesses. As more clients move in, the original customers' cost will drop because everyone shares the overhead expenses.

There Are Several Benefits to Using a Multi-Client Warehouse

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Multi-client warehouses can help reduce costs because customers only pay for the space they're currently using. Penske is a member of the International Warehouse Logistics Association and primarily uses IWLA contracts, which operate on a month-to-month basis with straightforward terms. This flexibility allows both parties to make adjustments as business needs evolve, with pricing typically reviewed annually.
  • Flexible Overhead: These facilities enable customers to stay agile without absorbing extra costs. Staffing remain fluid - if a customer needs additional staff, Penske can shift people from other areas within the same multi-client warehouse, rather than maintaining dedicated teams for each client.
  • Visibility and Connectivity: Penske uses a warehouse management system that's easy to get up and running. The system tracks every item in real time, so products don't get mixed up or lost.
Penske also keeps each client's inventory physically separate within the warehouse. Each customer gets their own rows of shelving for their products, with the next row belonging to a different customer. This creates clear boundaries, so companies' goods never get confused with each other.

Currently, the warehouse market is moderately tight, with a roughly 7% vacancy rate. For companies unable to find available space, Penske offers build-to-suite options that characteristically take approximately 12 months to complete.

As supply chain demand continue to evolve, multi-client warehousing offers companies a practical path to expand their reach without overextending their resources. Whether you're a growing business testing new markets, or an established company optimizing your distribution network, the flexibility and cost-efficiency of shared warehousing can help you stay competitive while keeping operations lean and responsive to changing customer needs.


Ready to explore how multi-client warehousing can strengthen your supply chain strategy? Contact us to discuss flexible solutions tailored to your distribution goals.

DISCLAIMER: The content provided is for general informational purposes only. Penske makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information presented; however, the information herein is provided without any warranty whatsoever, whether express, implied or statutory. In no event shall Penske be liable for (i) any direct, incidental, consequential, or indirect damages (including loss profits) arising out of the use of the information presented, even if Penske has been advised of the possibility of such damage, or (ii) any claim attributable to errors, omissions, or other inaccuracies in connection with the information presented.